U.S. Airlines are Brewing Something Special for National Beer Day

It’s Friday, and nothing says ‘Cheers to the weekend’ quite like an ice cold beer. Whether you’re an IPA aficionado or prefer to stick to the tried-and-true classics, that first sip is sure to set the mood for a leisurely evening. And with airlines constantly investing in the customer experience, you can expect to find a great selection of your favorite brews (and maybe a few new favorites) at 35,000 feet.

If you’re taking off on Alaska Airlines, don’t miss their selection of local beer, tailored to your destination. Try an Alaskan Amber or Alaskan Ice Bay IPA, both brewed in Juneau by Alaskan Brewing Co. If you’re jetting off to a tropical getaway, sample the Kona Longboard Island Lager, only available on flights to Hawaii, to get you in the Aloha spirit.

True to their name, American Airlines serves up American classics like Budweiser, Bud Light and Sam Adams, while offering international favorites like Dos Equis or Heineken. And what’s an ice cold beer without a delicious snack pairing? Help yourself to the “Wheels Up” nut mix, complete with cashews, almonds, golden raisins and sour cherries or the snack pack with crunchy veggie chips and creamy Mediterranean hummus.

JetBlue offers a wide array of choices for every type of beer drinker. Try the light, crisp Harpoon Brewery UFO White, with notes of coriander and orange peel or the “Vienna” style Brooklyn Brewery Lager, for an aromatic, amber-gold drink. If you prefer the sweeter taste of ciders, ask for the Angry Orchard Hard Cider, locally harvested and brewed in New York’s Apple Belt.

With a rotating selection of specialty beers, Southwest Airlines knows how to keep things exciting. Some onboard options have included Fat Tire, Dos Equis Special Lager and Leinenkugel’s Seasonal Summer Shandy. And to make your journey even sweeter, Southwest offers complimentary adult beverages on select holidays. We’ll toast to that!

While it may not be a traditional beer, United Airlines can mix up a ginger beer-based Moscow Mule inflight. Curated by Crafthouse Cocktails, this drink is made with premium vodka, ginger beer, lime juice and cane sugar. If you’d prefer a classic cold brew, opt for a Miller Lite, Goose IPA, Goose Four Star Pils or a Heineken.

With in-flight menus and drink options constantly expanding, the U.S. airlines are committed to providing delightful selections that are sure to please. So the next time you take to the skies, kick back and order a cold beer and you’ll be on your way to the weekend in no time.

By working with its members in the technical, legal and political arenas, A4A leads industry efforts to fashion crucial aviation policy and supports measures that enhance aviation safety, security and well-being.